If you’re ever in the Serengeti and have the opportunity to take a balloon safari, we highly recommend it. Yes, it’s crazy expensive but do it anyway – you won’t regret it!

Nick and Lyn had the joyful experience as a joint birthday present this morning, getting up well before the sun to make their way to the launch site in time for dawn. After some balloon-shaped biscuits and a final trip to the “loo with a view”, they loaded into the balloon basket on their backs, feeling somewhat like astronauts in a space capsule. Then the pilot was doing his thing and suddenly they were floating. The next 80 minutes were a magical experience with a half-dozen balloons riding the winds across the Serengeti plains. Viewing the animals from above was interesting but most exhilarating were the ever-shifting configuration of the balloons, the dawn light from behind, and soaring up high to take in the full expanse.

Meanwhile, a different part of our group went on a game drive along the ground, seeing many familiar animals, some even closer than had been seen previously. Today’s leopard has stashed his prey in the branches above him.

While we’re making recommendations for the Serengeti, we must mention how much we have all enjoyed our stay at the Sound of Silence tented camp. The manager has a gift for making people feel welcome. He has built a joyful community of camp staff who feel like family, a feeling that is extended to all the guests as well. In fact, Susannah decided to spend the whole day in camp, walking the path along the row of tents, reading and relaxing, and taking in the late afternoon sun from the main tent porch. Other family members joined the porch time as well, each with a different activity. Rowan’s elephant was a big hit with the camp staff. Dinner time started with a striking sunset and ended with singing by the camp staff – we will miss this place!